Governor Abbott Vetoes HB 3281

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto House Bill No. 3281 as passed by the Eighty-Fifth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

House Bill 3281 would have extended a City of Austin program that gives special tax treatment to certain neighborhoods at the expense of other taxpayers, with the apparent goal to stymie the natural forces of the free market. Directing large amounts of property tax revenue to select city projects has the effect of increasing the tax burden on other property owners. We should not empower cities to spend taxpayer money in a futile effort to hold back the free market.

The best way to ensure people do not lose their home because of rising property taxes is to cut property taxes. This bill does nothing to lessen the tax burden for Texans on the verge of being taxed out of their home. It merely permits the City of Austin to continue redirecting tax dollars for city-initiated redevelopment. If the City of Austin is concerned about rising taxes displacing its residents, it should reconsider its tax policies or its spending priorities.

Since the Eighty-Fifth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 15th day of June, 2017.